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Arnold Palmer received another huge ovation today after hitting the ceremonial first shot of the 2007 Masters at Augusta.

Palmer had agreed to become the tournament’s honorary starter and although it was not a drive to be particularly proud of, hooked left and bouncing into the rough, the 77-year-old had no need to worry about it.

“I didn’t make a bogey today,” he said after leaving the ball where it lay and heading back to the clubhouse.

After a moment of silence first in memory of Byron Nelson – a former honorary starter who died last September – Augusta National chairman Billy Payne introduced Palmer to the crowd lining the first fairway.

“Now on the tee at Augusta National, where he belongs, to the thrill and delights of his millions of fans, four-time Masters champion Arnold Palmer,” said Payne.

“Arnie, would you do us the honour of beginning our 2007 tournament?”

And after Palmer’s shot Payne added: “The 2007 Masters has now officially begun.”

Fifteen minutes later, on a bright but cool morning, American Billy Mayfair and England’s Ian Poulter were the first competitors into action.